Network connected/Distributed generation

Distributed Generation (or DG, just another name for a network connected system) is an option for those that are already connected to the network but want some kind or renewable energy generation on site as well.

Good things about network connected systems:

Use the grid as your battery – send the unwanted energy back, for a credit

When you’re not generating your own energy, the grid is still there

The ability to reduce your power bill

If you have batteries and/or are generating, you have continuity of supply during network outages (blackouts)

They use smaller battery banks, or no batteries at all: cheaper than a RAPS

Features of a Renewable Energy System

To make effective use of your renewable energy, be it wind, solar, or micro-hydro, the “generator(s)” must be part of a renewable energy system to manage storage, transmission and consumption of your energy. For example, generation peaks from wind or solar typically don’t coincide with when you want to use the energy. Also, the electricity in a renewable energy system is generated at various voltages so must be temporarily stored (in batteries for example) then configured for your household loads using other system components.